Apples iOS 5 is undoubtedly the best version of the mobile platform ever launched. The software, which is running on the iPhone 4S, comes with improved usability, the Notification Center, which provides application alerts on the iPhone, and a host of other improvements. However, the Galaxy Nexus is running Android 4.0 ("Ice Cream Sandwich"). That operating system is widely considered the best option for Android customers. Which one is better? Time will tell. But it looks like the mobile OS battle is heating up.

Apple's iPhone 4S is the leader in the smartphone market right now, delivering to customers just about everything they're looking for in a handset, sans true 4G support. However, the device is being targeted by Samsung's Galaxy Nexus, a device that, most reviewers agree, could be the best answer to the iPhone 4S yet. But upon hearing that, there might be some people who want to know if it's worth it for them to invest in the iPhone 4S now or wait for the Galaxy Nexus to hit store shelves in the U.S. to make their decision. After all, if the Galaxy Nexus really approaches the iPhone in features and performance, then it might be the device to wait for. However, in the continuously innovating technology world, waiting is not really an option. Instead, smartphone buyers need to have the information at hand to make the most informed decision as soon as possible. With that in mind, this slide show provides a quick guide to show how the Galaxy Nexus stacks up against Apple's iPhone 4S to help buyers determine if they should stick with Apple's handset or opt for Samsung's device.

Don Reisinger is a freelance technology columnist. He started writing about technology for Ziff-Davis' Gearlog.com. Since then, he has written extremely popular columns for CNET.com, Computerworld, InformationWeek, and others. He has appeared numerous times on national television to share his expertise with viewers. You can follow his every move at http://twitter.com/donreisinger.